Have questions or want to discuss cycling? Join Now or Sign In to participate in the BikeRide community.


Mountain bike conversion
#1
Hello, I'm currently converting an old mountain bike to a single gear. I'm unsure of the appropriate wheel size to get. Is there a way I can measure and determine the size I need?

[attachment=91] [attachment=92]
  Reply
#2
Are you sure that's a mountain bike?
MTBs usually have spigots for "cantilever brakes which that frame doesn't have. Wheel size will be either 26" or 700c. The size will initially be determined by the brake block position.
Personally I would expect that frame to have 700c wheels? If you can get hold of a wheel to try it out, either borrow or go to your local bike shop. There could still be different brake sizes required as the "drop" will be set by the distance that the wheel rim is from brake hole position in the forks and rear cross brace.
Before doing up a frame, cost out the parts as it is usually cheaper to buy a complete bike. (even a new one).

Ride hard or ride home alone!
  Reply
#3
I honestly thought it was a moutain bike...but thats definitely a good point. I didnt notice that...Im gonna try 700c wheels. Thank you very much!!

  Reply
#4
It may have had 26" wheels. Some lower end mtn bikes used caliper brakes. That said, you may be able to fit 700 wheels on it if there is enough clearance. In fact, It'll be a faster bike with better braking with a larger wheel because you can use a shorter reach brake.
Singles are fun and I definitely encourage you to build something yourself. That said, don't drop too much on parts. This isn't a good frame and you can probably get a complete comparable bike and convert it for what you'd spend on buying a set of halfway decent new wheels.
$10 fixed gear conversion:<br />
http://www.cicle.org/cicle_content/pivot/entry.php?id=1572

  Reply


Possibly Related Threads...

Forum Jump:

[-]
10 Latest Posts
POLL: Are non-recumbent riders looking a...
Yesterday 08:58 AM
Best Phone Mount and Best Headlight
Yesterday 07:11 AM
Rookie looking for a bike
Yesterday 07:08 AM
Wearable Fitness Trackers
Yesterday 07:05 AM
Grip Shifters
Yesterday 07:00 AM
Left a bike outside on the balcony for c...
Yesterday 06:58 AM
How often check or change mechanical dis...
Yesterday 06:55 AM
Pros & Cons of presta valve vs schrader ...
Yesterday 06:52 AM
9 speed chain on 8 speed bike
Yesterday 06:49 AM
First Metric Century
06-14-2025 01:51 PM

[-]
Join BikeRide on Strava
Feel free to join if you are on Strava: www.strava.com/clubs/bikeridecom

[-]
Top 5 Posters This Month
no avatar 1. Criminal
26 posts
no avatar 2. rydabent
19 posts
no avatar 3. Flowrider
15 posts
no avatar 4. GirishH
13 posts
no avatar 5. SPINMAN
11 posts